The Indonesian National Revolution was a crucial phase in Indonesia's struggle for independence from colonial powers, specifically the Netherlands. On December 20, 1948, the Dutch launched a military operation that resulted in the capture of Yogyakarta, which had served as the temporary capital of the recently proclaimed Republic of Indonesia. The Dutch aimed to re-establish their authority in the region following the Indonesian declaration of independence in 1945, which was met with varying degrees of resistance and international scrutiny.

The military operation, codenamed 'Operation Product,' involved strategic ground and air assaults, effectively overwhelming the Indonesian Republican forces. In Yogyakarta, the Dutch were met with organized resistance but their superior military logistics and access to artillery and air support quickly turned the tide in their favor. This capture was not merely a tactical victory; it was a psychological blow to the Indonesian republicans as well, symbolizing foreign dominance over the independence movement and leading to significant shifts in political negotiations.

The fall of Yogyakarta forced the Republican leaders, including President Sukarno and Vice President Mohammad Hatta, to relocate and reevaluate their strategies in light of the heightened military pressure exerted by the Dutch forces. International reactions were mixed, with some nations advocating for Indonesian self-determination while others supported Dutch claims. The brutality of the Dutch military tactics sparked outrage, eventually contributing to increased diplomatic pressure on the Netherlands and calls for recognition of Indonesian sovereignty, ultimately leading to the Dutch-Indonesian Round Table Conference.